Trimax 1080 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Trimax 1080 is defined by its exceptional power-to-weight ratio and its ability to maintain high average speeds in varying sea states. According to technical specifications from the designer, Peter Bosgraaf, the vessel features a deep-profile daggerboard and a high-aspect fractional sloop rig, which together provide superior upwind pointing capabilities—a traditional weakness for many multihulls.

In terms of handling, the 1080 is noted for its "light touch" on the helm, particularly when the wind exceeds 15 knots and the boat begins to leverage its significant beam for stability. Unlike smaller sport-trimarans, the 1080 is designed to stay relatively flat; its amas (outriggers) have enough buoyancy to support the entire displacement of the boat, ensuring a high safety margin during spirited reaches. The inclusion of a dedicated gunwale—a rarity on trimarans—provides the helmsman and crew with secure footing and improved ergonomics when moving forward to manage the mast or ground tackle in heavy weather.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Trimax 1080 utilizes the volume of the central hull to create a surprisingly functional living space for a performance-oriented boat. The layout typically features a double V-berth in the bow, a central saloon with a folding table that can accommodate four to six adults, and a compact but efficient galley. One of the standout features of the 1080, compared to its smaller sibling, the Trimax 1050, is the increased headroom and the more refined use of composite modules finished with wood accents, which prevents the cabin from feeling overly clinical.

While the 1080 is the flagship, the 1050 model served as the developmental foundation. The 1080 offers approximately 30 centimeters of additional length and refined hydrodynamics in the main hull, resulting in a drier ride and more stowage capacity for extended cruising. The large trampolines between the main hull and the amas act as an expansive "outdoor lounge," effectively doubling the usable deck space when at anchor, a feature frequently highlighted by the builder as essential for the Mediterranean and Caribbean cruising markets.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a pre-owned Trimax 1080 should conduct a rigorous survey focused on the specific stresses unique to high-performance multihulls.

• Beam Attachment Points: While the Trimax 1080 uses robust composite beams, the areas where the beams join the central hull and the amas are high-stress zones. Inspectors should look for "spider-web" stress cracking in the gelcoat or signs of movement in the mounting hardware.
• Daggerboard Trunk: Given the 1080’s high-speed potential, the daggerboard trunk can be subject to significant lateral loads. It is vital to check for water ingress or structural delamination around the trunk base and the leading edge of the board.
• Trampoline Tension and UV Damage: The expansive trampolines are critical for safety and deck utility. If the lacing or the material feels brittle, it is a sign of UV degradation, necessitating a full replacement to ensure crew safety.
• Core Integrity: Since the boat utilizes vacuum-infusion and cored construction for weight savings, any aftermarket through-hull fittings or deck hardware installations that were not properly sealed can lead to localized core rot or delamination.

Community & Resources

While Trimax Yachts NV is a boutique builder, the community of owners is primarily centered in Northern Europe, specifically Belgium and the Netherlands. Technical support is often channeled through the original engineering partners or the designer’s office. Enthusiasts frequently interact through the Multihull Centre or regional multihull associations that specialize in European performance designs.

The Verdict

The Trimax 1080 remains a compelling choice for the sailor who desires the speed of a racing catamaran but the directional stability and "big boat" feel of a trimaran. It is a purpose-built machine that rewards skilled trimming while remaining forgiving enough for family outings.

Pros:

• Speed and Stability: Capable of double-digit speeds while remaining significantly more stable than a monohull.
• Shallow Draft: The retractable daggerboard and kick-up rudder allow for "gunkholing" in areas inaccessible to most cruisers.
• Deck Safety: The unique gunwale and wide trampolines make it one of the safest multihulls in its class for movement under sail.

Cons:

• Limited Interior Volume: Compared to a 35-foot catamaran, the central hull living space is narrow.
• Market Rarity: As a boutique Belgian build, finding a 1080 on the secondary market can be difficult, often requiring a search of European-specific databases.
• Dockage Costs: The wide beam (typical of trimarans) can result in higher berthing fees at marinas that do not have dedicated multihull slips.